It’s sunshine and a thousand degrees every day; the football teams and bands are outside sweating on the practice fields...

Yes, that means the new school year is fast approaching.

One other dead giveaway are all the back-to-school ads. And have you looked at the school supply shopping lists?

Some, if not most, of them will hit you hard like a linebacker, especially for parents with many children.

They may have to leave their firstborn with the loan officer as collateral.

That fact has not gone unnoticed by the good folks at the Beeville Vineyard and volunteers from such groups as Child Protective Services.

“I don’t see how families can afford to get ready for school,” said Lupe Sanchez, Vineyard director. She mentioned the lengthy school supply lists of glue, crayons, pencils, markers, glue sticks and numerous other items.

“The Vineyard is in great need,” Melissa Rosales, from CPS, said. She and her coworkers went shopping on their own and purchased about 20 backpacks filled with supplies.

“Some kids don’t have any clothes to go back to school with,” Rosales said, pointing out that the charity organization also needs shirts, pants, dresses and shoes.

For those wanting to help, the Vineyard is particularly focusing on collecting for elementary age children through sixth grade.

“It (takes) all of us,” Rosales said, ensuring that those families going through hard times are able to send their kids to school, filled with excitement instead of worry or dread.

Businesses, churches and individuals are encouraged to deliver their donations, either supplies or money, to the Vineyard office at 210 N. Monroe St., or call them at 358-7500.